Breaking Barriers in Forensic Science: How Antoinette T. Campbell is Changing the Face of the Industry
Forensic science has long been a field shrouded in mystery and glamorized by crime dramas, but for Antoinette T. Campbell, it’s a deeply personal mission. A forensic scientist based in Philadelphia, Campbell recognized a glaring issue within the field—its lack of diversity. Instead of accepting the status quo, she took action. In 2010, she founded the Association of Women in Forensic Science, a nonprofit dedicated to connecting aspiring forensic professionals, particularly women and underrepresented communities, with opportunities in the STEM world.
Now, she’s making waves by breaking down barriers, inspiring the next generation, and proving that forensic science isn’t just for a select few—it’s for everyone.
A Chance Encounter That Sparked a Lifelong Passion
For Campbell, forensic science wasn’t always the dream. In fact, she stumbled upon it by accident. In 2000, while studying chemistry at Temple University, she attended a career fair that changed her trajectory. A recruiter mentioned that police departments hired chemists, a revelation that opened a door she hadn’t even known existed.
“All these years later, I still meet students who don’t know they have these kinds of options,” she says. “It hasn’t changed.”
From the Lab to the Courtroom: The Real Work of a Forensic Scientist
Campbell’s early career was spent in forensic drug chemistry, analyzing substances like cocaine, oxycodone, and marijuana for law enforcement agencies. Today, she works in quality assurance, ensuring forensic labs comply with national accreditation standards—an often-overlooked but critical part of the justice system.
But her favorite part? The courtroom.
“Being an expert witness is where you really see how everything comes together. You realize the weight of what you do—people’s lives are on the line,” she says. “It’s not something you can take lightly.”
The Invisible Struggle: Being a Black Woman in Forensic Science
While forensic science has made strides in gender diversity, racial diversity remains a significant issue. Campbell often felt like an outsider. “I didn’t have a mentor in college. I don’t meet many Black women in the field, and I can count on one hand how many are active on social media,” she explains.
Even in professional organizations, leadership roles are overwhelmingly held by white men, limiting representation and creating a cycle where young Black and brown students don’t see themselves reflected in forensic science careers.
Building a Pathway for the Next Generation
Determined to change the landscape, Campbell launched Club Philly Forensics in 2010—a youth program offering forensic science workshops, drug education, and violence prevention for kids aged 12-18. “I kept meeting young people fascinated by forensics, and I wanted to give them something tangible,” she says.
Through grassroots efforts—advertising in churches and recreation centers—Campbell gathered a team of forensic professionals to provide hands-on activities and mentorship. The program took off, leading to partnerships with STEM organizations and an expanded mission that now includes college students seeking guidance in forensic careers.
“I felt like this was my calling,” she says. “Something I had to do.”
Juggling a Career, a Nonprofit, and Parenthood
Balancing full-time forensic work with nonprofit leadership wasn’t easy—especially as a single mother. But Campbell credits the support of her community for helping her push through challenges. “People showed up to my classes and told me how proud they were,” she says. “That kept me going.”
Breaking Down Barriers—One Webinar at a Time
Today, the Association of Women in Forensic Science offers webinars featuring industry experts, workshops on crime scene investigation, and a new in-depth forensic science career course launching this spring.
She’s also harnessing the power of social media. “TikTok, Instagram, Facebook—I use them all,” she says. “Different platforms reach different audiences. Kids love TikTok, millennials follow me on Instagram, and Facebook attracts an older crowd.”
Her outreach is truly global, with followers from Nigeria to Italy engaging with her content.
Looking Ahead: A Legacy Beyond the Lab
Campbell isn’t stopping anytime soon. In 2021, she launched Street Forensics, an apparel brand inspired by forensic science, and she plans to expand her advocacy to global forensic issues, including missing persons cases, sexual assault, and cybercrime.
“Forensic science is so much more than what people see on TV,” she says. “It’s real life. And we need diverse voices in the field.”
A Mission for Everyone
Although her focus has been on empowering women and minorities in forensics, Campbell is clear: “What I do is for everyone. I want to see more women in forensics, but that doesn’t take away from the importance of having men involved too.”
Her journey is a testament to the power of representation, perseverance, and the belief that forensic science should be accessible to all—not just the privileged few. And thanks to her work, the field is changing—one future forensic scientist at a time.
